SARASOTA EVENTS

The Florida Suncoast Celebrates America 2018

How is your summer going? We hope you have had ample opportunity to experience some of the spectacular sights we are fortunate to have in our area. Now, if that red tide would only make a permanent exit and leave our waters and beaches alone, the summer would be perfect. There are so many interesting venues and natural places to explore on these long summer days. And now we have arrived at summer’s main event, 4th of July, America’s Independence Day. As a child I always loved the build-up to 4th of July fireworks and fun. The event always meant we would gather with friends for a great cookout, swim in the lake all day, probably a bonfire in the mix and the opportunity to sit in the cool night air and watch the spectacular show in the sky while feeling the booms of the fireworks throughout our bodies. It was magnificent.

This year Independence Day finds our country at a divided point in history. Political rhetoric, fake news and the very real views of people poured out onto social media streams and news outlets keep the divisiveness fueled. For many, the daily grind of anger in our country is ad nauseam. The opportunity to unite for even one day focusing on our patriotism and pride in our country is welcomed. All around the Suncoast communities have family-friendly events planned. Several festivals, fireworks over the water, parades and parties will set the stage for a day of communing with neighbors, friends and family. It’s a great time to remember what we love about this land we live in and to don our red, white, and blue attire to celebrate in style. We are profoundly fortunate to live in a country where our freedoms including speech, are worth celebrating this Independence Day, and every day. However much our opinions may differ from one another, we can find common ground, it is there. We are delighted to provide you with a stellar lineup of 4th of July celebrations around the Sarasota area. Enjoy the festivities and Happy Birthday America!

Sarasota: Fireworks begin at dusk, around 9:00 P.M. at Bayfront Park. Anywhere along that area including Island Park will be a perfect location to catch the show. Bring an umbrella and your patience as this is one of the largest fireworks displays along the Suncoast.

Siesta Key: Anywhere along Crescent Beach, out on the Gulf or Intracoastal will put you in the perfect spot for this display. This is also a large attraction, bringing crowds expected to near 30,000.

Venice: After sunset, fireworks will go off at the South Venice jetty. You can catch this show anywhere along Venice Beach and Nokomis Beach. Huge crowds will line the jetty and beach areas, so get there early. Fireworks estimated to begin at dusk.

North Port: North Port holds their annual Freedom Festival, a free event with bounce houses, live music and fireworks set to begin at dusk. The festival opens at 6:00 P.M. at North Port High School. Limited stadium seating is available so bring your blankets for a great spot on the field.